Surgical method for implantable head mounted neurostimulation system for head pain

ABSTRACT

A method for subcutaneously treating pain in a patient includes first providing a neurostimulator with an IPG body and at least a primary integral lead with electrodes disposed thereon. A primary incision is opened to expose the subcutaneous region below the dermis in a selected portion of the body. A pocket is then opened for the IPG through the primary incision and the primary integral lead is inserted through the primary incision and routed subcutaneously to a first desired nerve region along a first desired path. The IPG is disposed in the pocket through the primary incision. The primary incision is then closed and the IPG and the electrodes activated to provide localized stimulation to the desired nerve region and at least one of the nerves associated therewith to achieve a desired pain reduction response from the patient.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/717,912, filed May 20, 2015, entitled IMPLANTABLE HEADMOUNTED NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEM FOR HEAD PAIN, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/460,139, filed Aug. 14, 2014,published on Apr. 23, 2015 as U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2015-0112406, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,042,991, issued on May 26, 2015, whichclaims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/894,795, filedOct. 23, 2013, entitled IMPLANTABLE HEAD MOUNTED NEUROSTIMULATION SYSTEMFOR HEAD PAIN. U.S. application Ser. Nos. 14/717,912, 14/460,139 and61/894,795, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0112406, andU.S. Pat. No. 9,042,991 are incorporated by reference herein in theirentirety.

This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/460,111, filed Aug. 14, 2014, published on Feb. 19, 2015 as U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0051678, entitled IMPLANTABLENEUROSTIMULATION LEAD FOR HEAD PAIN, which claims benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/865,893, filed Aug. 14, 2013. U.S.application Ser. No. 14/460,111 and 61/865,893 and U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2015-0051678 are incorporated by referenceherein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a head located implantableneurostimulation system and, specifically, to methods of implanting afully head located cranial and peripheral neurostimulator system that isutilized for the purpose of treating chronic head pain.

BACKGROUND

Neurostimulation systems comprising implantable neurostimulation leadsare used to treat chronic pain. Conventional implantable peripheralneurostimulation leads are designed for placement in the spinal canal aspart of a spinal cord stimulation system, and for the therapeuticpurpose of treating various forms of chronic back and extremity pain.

Until the present invention, implantable neurostimulator systems forhead pain essentially involved deep brain stimulators, where leads werepositioned in the substance of the brain itself; traditional spinal cordstimulator systems that were adopted and adapted for the treatment ofhead pain; or implantable systems for neurostimulation of the vagusnerve or sphenopalatine ganglion.

Historically, the most common case involves the adaption of spinal cordstimulators for the purpose of peripheral nerve stimulation, such thatall publically available implantable neurostimulation systems utilizedfor the treatment of chronic head pain have been originally designedspecifically as spinal cord stimulator systems for the therapeuticpurpose of treating chronic back and extremity pain. As these systemswere developed for implantation in the back, their design did notcontemplate the anatomic and physiologic features unique to the head andchronic head pain, which are so significantly different from the anatomyof the spinal canal, and pathophysiology of chronic back pain, that whenspinal cord stimulators were utilized for cranial implants, the clinicalproblems associated with these differences ultimately manifestedthemselves.

These well-documented and clinically significant problems relate toissues of patient safety and satisfaction, including the risk of aninadequate, or suboptimal, therapeutic response; issues with patientcomfort and cosmetics; and an increased risk of surgical complicationsand technical problems. Several specific inherent deficiencies in devicedesign and method of implant underlie these deficiencies and problems.Likely the most common methodological deficiency is the fact that theimplantable pulse generator (IPG) must necessarily be implanted at aconsiderable anatomic distance for the cranial lead implants. Indeed,the leads must pass from their distal cranial implant positions acrossthe cervical region and upper back to the IPG implant location, whichare most commonly in the lower back, lower abdomen, or gluteal region.The related problems are due the fact that the leads must cross multipleanatomic motion segments (neck and back). Here, the simple motions ofnormal daily life produce adverse tension and torque forces on the leadsacross these motion segments, which in turn increase the risk oftechnical problems, including lead migration and/or lead fracture. Asecond problem relates to the relatively large size of the IPG, whichcontributes to local discomfort, cosmetic concerns, and the fact thatshould the IPG pocket become infected, the related clinical problemparallels the relatively large size of the IPG; that is, the larger theIPG, the larger the pocket, and the larger and more problematic anycomplicating infection. Additional inherent problems include the addedrisks, especially infection, wound dehiscence, discomfort, and cosmeticproblems associated with the multiple additional incisions that arenecessary to pass the leads from the IPG to their terminal positions inthe head.

SUMMARY

In various implementations, an implantable head-located, unibodyperipheral nerve stimulation system may be configured for implantationof substantially all electronics, including an on-site battery, at ornear the implanted electrodes on the skull. The system may include animplantable pulse generator (IPG) from which two neurostimulating leadsmay extend to a length sufficient to provide therapeuticneurostimulation unilaterally over the frontal, parietal and occipitalregions of the hemicranium. The system may be operable to providemedically acceptable therapeutic neurostimulation to multiple regions ofthe head, including the frontal, parietal and occipital regions of thehemicranium, substantially simultaneously.

Each of the leads may include an extended lead body; a plurality ofsurface metal electrodes disposed along the lead body, which may bedivided into two or more electrode arrays; and a plurality of internalelectrically conducting metal wires running along at least a portion ofthe length of the lead body and individually connecting an internalcircuit of the IPG to individual surface metal electrodes. The extendedlead body may comprise a medical grade plastic. The IPG may include arechargeable battery, an antenna coil, and an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC). The IPG may be configured for functionallyconnecting with an external radiofrequency unit. The externalradiofrequency unit may be operable to perform various functionsincluding recharging the rechargeable battery, diagnostically evaluatingthe IPG, and programming the IPG.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. TheIPG may be of proper aspect ratio with respect to the specific site ofintended implantation in the head, such as an area posterior to and/orsuperior to the ear. There may be an external portable programming unitthat is capable of achieving a radiofrequency couple to the implantedIPG. The IPG may have a rechargeable battery as a power source. Therechargeable battery may be inductively recharged through the skin.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. Aneurostimulating lead may not include a central channel for a stylet. Aneurostimulating lead may have a smaller diameter than conventionalleads.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. Thesystem may include the disposition of a sufficient plurality of surfaceelectrodes over a sufficient linear distance along the neurostimulatingleads to enable medically adequate therapeutic stimulation acrossmultiple regions of the head, including the frontal, parietal, andoccipital region of the hemicranium substantially simultaneously. Theextended array of surface electrodes may be divided into two or morediscrete terminal surface electrode arrays. The linear layout of themultiple surface electrode arrays may include at least one arraypositioned over the frontal region, at least one array positioned overthe parietal region, and at least one array positioned over theoccipital region.

Specific intra-array design features may include variations in thespecific number of electrodes allotted to each group; the shape of theelectrodes, e.g., whether the electrodes are cylindrical or flattened;the width of each electrode within each array, and the linear distanceintervals of separation of the electrodes within each array.

Various implementations may include a plurality of connection ports thatcan be connected with a plurality of leads and thus allow for attachingadditional leads.

In various implementations, methods of treating chronic pain may includemethods of treating chronic head and/or face pain of multipleetiologies, including migraine headaches; and other primary headaches,including cluster headaches, hemicrania continua headaches, tension typeheadaches, chronic daily headaches; further including secondaryheadaches, such as cervicogenic headaches and other secondarymusculoskeletal headaches.

In various implementations, methods of treating chronic pain may includemethods of treating head and/or face pain of multiple etiologies,including neuropathic head and/or face pain, nociceptive head and/orface pain, and/or sympathetic related head and/or face pain.

In various implementations, methods of treating chronic pain may includemethods of treating head and/or face pain of multiple etiologies,including greater occipital neuralgia, as well as the other variousoccipital neuralgias, supraorbital neuralgia, auriculo-temporalneuralgia, infraorbital neuralgia, and other trigeminal neuralgias, andother head and face neuralgias.

In various implementations the unibody neurostimulation system with twoleads, including one with multiple arrays, is fully implanted with allcomponents positioned within the subcutaneous layer of the skin andwithout the requirement of sutures, anchors, or other fixation devicesto fix the systems, or portions thereof in position.

The details of one or more implementations are set forth in theaccompanying drawings and the description below. Other features,objects, and advantages of the implementations will be apparent from thedescription and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its features,reference is now made to the following description, taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a side view of a head-located, unibody neurostimulatorsystem for migraine and other head pain. The system features animplantable pulse generator (IPG) from which two neurostimulating leadsextend—a Fronto-Parietal Lead (FPL) and an Occipital Lead (OL). Eachlead includes a plurality of electrodes in a distribution and over alength to allow full unilateral coverage of the frontal, parietal, andoccipital portions of the head;

FIG. 2 depicts a side view of a Frontal Electrode Array (FEA) withInternal Wires. The FEA is disposed over the distal portion (such as8-10 cm) of the FPL, which anatomically places it over the frontalregion, and specifically over the supraorbital nerve and other adjacentnerves of the region. In general the layout, disposition and connectionsof the Internal Wires and Surface Electrodes disposed over the ParietalElectrode Array (PEA) and the Occipital Electrode Array (OEA) are thesame as that depicted for the FEA;

FIG. 3 depicts a side view of the Internal Wires exiting from the IPG'sInternal Circuit enroute to the Surface Electrodes disposed over the FPLand the OL;

FIG. 4 depicts a cross-sectional view of a Lead Central Body comprisinga Cylindrical Lead Body (with Internal Wires) between the IPG InternalCircuit and the Lead Surface Electrodes;

FIG. 5 depicts a rear view of a Head with a full Head-MountedNeurostimulator System In-Situ. Prominent here is the OL depictedpassing from the IPG caudally and medially across the occipital region,whereby the OEA is disposed in a fashion to cross over and cover themajor associated nerves—primarily the greater occipital nerve, buttypically including the lessor and/or third occipital nerve as well.Also depicted are the PEA and the FEA of the FPL as they cross and coverthe primary nerves of the Parietal Region, including theauriculo-temporal nerve, and the Frontal Region, including thesupraorbital nerve;

FIG. 6 depicts a side view of a Head with a full Head-LocatedNeurostimulator System In-Situ. Prominent here is the PEA, as it coversa portion of the Parietal Region and the major associated nerves,including the auriculo-temporal nerve, as well as adjacent cutaneousnerves. Also depicted are the courses of the distal portion of the FPLand the OL, as they pass over and cover the associated nerves of theFrontal (Supraorbital) and Occipital Regions;

FIG. 7 depicts a front view of a Head with a full Head-LocatedNeurostimualtor System In-Situ. Prominent here is the FEA, as it coversa portion of the Frontal (Supraorbital) Region and the major associatednerves—primarily the supraorbital nerve, but also commonly the greatertrochlear nerve, as well as adjacent nerves. Also depicted is the courseof the parietal portion of the FL;

FIGS. 8A and 8B depicts a front view and a side view of a PortableProgrammer for a Head-Mounted Neurostimulator System;

FIG. 9 depicts a side view of a head and initial interventional step inthe procedure;

FIG. 10 depicts a side view of the head and the next step of theprocedure following that depicted in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 depicts a side view of the head and the next step of theprocedure following that depicted in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 depicts a frontal view of the FL as having been positionedsubcutaneously as discussed in FIG. 11;

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict a side view of the next step in the procedureafter the step depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12;

FIG. 14 depicts a cross section view of the skin at the Supra-auricularIncision at the stage of the procedure depicted in FIG. 13. Prominenthere is the IPG in its Subcutaneous Pocket, as well as the initialproximal segments of the FL and the OL as they pass per the SubcutaneousLayer. The Peel-Away Introducer noted in FIG. 13 is also prominent;

FIG. 15 depicts a cross section view of the skin at the point where theActive Electrode Array of the OL has been positioned over (superficialto) the Subcutaneous Layer;

FIG. 16 depicts a view of the head from the top after the fullneurostimulator system has been implanted;

FIG. 17 depicts two implanted IPGs with leads to cover both sides of thehead; and

FIG. 18 depicts one implanted IPG with leads to cover both sides of thehead;

FIG. 19 illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 17 with acharging/communication headset disposed about the cranium;

FIG. 20 illustrates a diagrammatic view of the headset interfaced withthe implants;

FIG. 21 illustrates a schematic view of the implants and headset;

FIGS. 22A-B illustrate block diagrams of the headset/charger system; and

FIG. 23 is a flowchart for the activation process to test the implant(s)after implantation.

INDEX OF ELEMENTS

-   10: Implantable Pulse Generator-   10 a: Implantable Pulse Generator Passed Subcutaneously-   11: Antenna-   12: Battery-   13: Application Specific Integrated Circuit-   14: Medical Plastic Cover-   20: Fronto-Parietal Lead-   20 a: Plastic Body Member-   20 b: Fronto-Parietal Lead Passed Subcutaneously-   21 Distal End-   22: Proximal End-   22 a: Proximal Lead Segment-   22 b: Proximal Lead Segment Passed Subcutaneously-   23: Distal Non-Stimulating Tip-   24: Surface Metal Electrode-   25: Frontal Electrode Array-   26: Parietal Electrode Array-   27: Inter-Array Interval-   28 Point of Cross Section FIG. 4-   28 a: Distal Lead Segment Passed Subcutaneously-   29 Lead Internal Wire-   30 Occipital Lead-   30 b: Occipital Lead Passed Subcutaneously-   31 Distal End-   32 Proximal End-   32 a Proximal Lead Segment-   33 Distal Non-Stimulating Tip-   34 Surface Metal Electrode-   35 Occipital Electrode Array-   36 Interelectrode Distance-   37 Surface Electrode Width-   38 Lead Internal Wire-   39 Plastic Body Member-   40: Portable Programmer-   41: Liquid Crystal Display-   42: Remote Charge Status-   43: IPG Charge Status-   44: Program Running Icon-   44 a: LCD Head Graphic-   45: Right & left Toggle Buttons-   46: Increase & Decrease Buttons-   47: Confirm/Enter Button-   48: On/Off Button-   49: Top View with Lock Button-   50 Occipital Region of Head-   51 a: Cross Section of Greater Occipital Nerve-   51 Greater Occipital Nerve-   52 Lesser Occipital Nerve-   53 Third Occipital Nerve-   60 Parietal Region of Head-   61 Auriculotemporal Nerve-   62: Zygomaticotemporal Nerve-   63: Apex of Pinna-   64: Vertical Pre-Pinna Line-   65: Vertical Mid-Pinna Line-   66: Vertical Post-Pinna Line-   67: Horizontal Supra-Pinna Line-   68: Supra-auricular Subcutaneous Incision-   68 a: Lower Point of Supra-auricular Subcutaneous Incision-   68 b: Blowup of Supra-auricular Subcutaneous Incision-   69: Temple Subcutaneous Incision-   69 a: Lower point of Temple Subcutaneous Incision-   70 Frontal Region of Head-   71 Supraorbital Nerve-   72: Supratrochlear Nerve-   80: Cross Section of Scalp-   81: Dermis-   82; Subcutaneous Tissue Layer-   83: Fascia-   84: Muscle Layer-   85: Aponeurosis-   86: Boney Skull-   87: Arrow Indicating Direction of Fronto-Parietal Lead-   88: Skin Incision Depth to Subcutaneous Layer-   90: Tubular Metal Introducer-   91: Scalpel-   92: Local Anesthetic Infiltrated in Skin-   93: Syringe-   94: Step Dilator-   95: Peel-Away Introducer-   96: Flex Elevator-   96 a; Flex Elevator Handle-   96 b: Flex Elevator Tissue Spatula

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers are usedherein to designate like elements throughout, the various views andembodiments of implantable head located neurostimulation system for headpain are illustrated and described, and other possible embodiments aredescribed. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in someinstances the drawings have been exaggerated and/or simplified in placesfor illustrative purposes only. One of ordinary skill in the art willappreciate the many possible applications and variations based on thefollowing examples of possible embodiments.

A. INTRODUCTION

The present disclosure provides a fully head located implantableperipheral neurostimulation system designed for the treatment of chronichead pain. It incorporates multiple elements and features that take intoaccount the unique anatomic, physiologic, and other related challengesof treating head pain with implantable neurostimulation, thereby greatlyimproving on therapeutic response, patient safety, medical risk, andmedical costs, which combine to improve overall patient satisfaction.

Prior implantable peripheral neurostimulation systems and components,including leads and pulse generators, have been designed and developedspecifically as spinal cord stimulator systems and for the specifictherapeutic purpose of treating chronic back and extremity pain. Overthe years, these spinal cord stimulators were ultimately adopted andadapted for use as implantable peripheral nerve stimulators for thetreatment of migraine headaches, and other forms of chronic head pain;however, they were so utilized with full recognition of the inherentrisks and limitations given that they were developed only to address,and accommodate to, the unique anatomic and physiologic features of theback and chronic back pain.

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/865,893 describes themanifold problems associated with the application of spinal cordstimulators for head pain as fundamentally due to design flawsassociated with, and inherent to, the use of an implantable therapeuticdevice in an area of the body that it was not designed for.

Indeed, the anatomy of the head, and the pathophysiology of headaches,and other forms of head pain, are so significantly different from theanatomy of the spinal canal, and pathophysiology of chronic back pain,that when spinal cord stimulators are utilized for cranial implants, theclinical problems associated with these differences manifest themselves.Importantly, these well-documented problems are clinically verysignificant and include issues of patient safety and satisfaction, therisk of an inadequate, or suboptimal, therapeutic response; and issueswith patient comfort and cosmetics; as well as a recognized increasedrisk of surgical complications and technical problems.

These medical issues stem from the design of conventional leads and theIPG. Conventional lead designs include a relatively large diameter, acylindrical shape, (often) inadequate length and the necessity ofimplanting the IPG in the torso and distant from the distal leads, and anumber and disposition of the surface electrodes and active lead arraysthat do not match the requirements. A cylindrical lead of relativelylarge diameter results in increased pressure on, and manifest tentingof, the overlying skin, particularly of the forehead. Becauseconventional leads are of inadequate length to extend from the head tothe IPG implant site, commonly in the lower back, abdomen, or glutealregion, lead extensions are often employed, and there are attendantrisks of infection, local discomfort, and cosmetic concerns.

With respect to prior leads: 1) There is only a single array ofelectrodes, with common lead options including 4, 8, or 16 electrodesdisposed over that single array; 2) The array is relatively short withmost leads having an array of from 5-12 cm in length; 3) Within thissingle array, the individual electrodes are disposed uniformly withconstant, equal inter-electrode distances. This results in the need toimplant multiple (often four or more) of the conventional leads toadequately cover the painful regions of the head.

There are several practical clinical outcomes that result from the useof prior leads for the treatment of chronic head pain. First, since theycomprise a single, relatively short active array, the currentlyavailable leads provide therapeutic stimulation to only a single regionof the head; that is, they can provide stimulation to only the frontalregion, or a portion of the parietal region, or a portion of theoccipital region. Therefore, if a patient has pain that extends overmultiple regions, then multiple separate lead implants arerequired—basically one lead implant is required for each unilateralregion. A great majority of patients with chronic headaches experienceholocephalic pain; that is they experience pain over the frontal andparietal and occipital regions bilaterally. Therefore, commonly thesepatients will need 4 to 7 leads implanted to achieve adequatetherapeutic results (2 or 3 leads on each side).

Second, the need for multiple leads includes considerable added expense,and more importantly, added medical risk associated with adverse eventsattendant to the multiple surgical procedures. Such adverse eventsinclude an increased risk of infection, bleeding, and technical issueswith the leads, e.g., lead fracture, lead migration, and localirritation.

Third, as the clinical database discloses, the inter-electrode spacingmay be of central therapeutic significance. That is, for example,whereas commonly pain over the occipital region is consistentlyeffectively treated by quadripolar leads (leads with four evenly spacedelectrodes) that have the electrodes relatively widely spaced apart(approximately a cm or more apart), clinically it is often found thatelectrodes configurations that are more narrowly spaced may be moreeffective over the supraorbital nerve and regions. Thus, a quadripolarlead that has the electrodes only 1-2 mm apart may be more effective inthis region, as it allows for more precise control of the deliveredelectrical pulse wave delivery.

Inter-electrode spacing is also of therapeutic significance. Forexample, whereas pain over the occipital region is commonly treatedeffectively by systems incorporating relatively widely-spacedquadripolar leads (four electrodes at approximately 1 cm or moreintervals), more narrowly spaced contacts are often more effective overthe supraorbital region.

When an IPG implant designed for spinal cord stimulation systems isemployed as a peripheral nerve stimulator for head pain, severaloutcomes result. First, the IPG is implanted at a considerable anatomicdistance for the cranial lead implants. Indeed, the leads must pass fromtheir distal cranial implant positions across the cervical region andupper back to the IPG implant location, which are most commonly in thelower back, lower abdomen, or gluteal region. The leads must crossmultiple anatomic motion segments, including the neck and upper backand/or chest at a minimum, and commonly include the mid back, lower backand waist segments, as well. The simple motions of normal daily lifeproduce adverse tension and torque forces on the leads across thesemotion segments, which in turn increases the risk of various outcomes,including lead migration and/or lead fracture. In addition, therelatively large size of a spinal cord stimulator IPG contributes tolocal discomfort, cosmetic concerns, and increased risk of infectionthat may become larger and harder to treat in proportion to the size ofthe IPG pocket.

The present disclosure is directed to an implantable head-locatedunibody peripheral neurostimulation system that includes an IPG fromwhich two neurostimulating leads extend to a length sufficient to allowfor therapeutic neurostimulation unilaterally over the frontal, parietaland occipital regions of the head.

The present disclosure addresses and effectively solves problemsattendant to publically available leads. The most important of these isthe fact that current leads can only adequately stimulate a singleregion of the head due to design element flaws associated with terminalsurface electrode number and disposition. The disclosure additionallyaddresses and solves other problems inherent with the currentlyavailable leads, including problems with cosmetics and patient comfort,particularly over the frontal regions, due the uncomfortable pressureplaced on the skin of the forehead, due the cylindrical shape andrelatively large diameter of the distal portion of the lead. Finally,the lead of the present disclosure solves the currently available leads'problem of inadequate lead length to reach a gluteal location of theimplantable pulse generator, which therefore necessitates the additionalrisk and expense of further surgery to implant lead extensions.

In one aspect, the implantable, head-located, neurostimulation systemfor head pain is operable for subcutaenous implantation in the head, andto provide neurostimulation therapy for chronic head pain, includingchronic head pain caused by migraine and other headaches, as well aschronic head pain due other etiologies. The peripheral neurostimulatorsystem disclosed herein takes into account unique anatomic features ofthe human head, as well as the unique, or singular, features of thevarious pathologies that give rise to head pain, including migraine andother headaches, as well as other forms of chronic head pain. This leaddesign for implantation in the head for chronic head pain recognizesthat thus far all commercially available systems that have beenclinically utilized for implantation as a peripheral neurostimulatorsystem were actually originally designed specifically for placement inthe epidural space, as part of a spinal cord stimulation system, for thetherapeutic purpose of treating chronic back and/or extremity pain.Thus, there are currently no commercially available leads or a completesystem that have designs in the public domain, that have been designedand developed for use in the head and for head pain.

In another aspect, the implantable, head-located, neurostimulationsystem for head pain comprises multiple design features, includingdisposition of a sufficient plurality of surface electrodes over asufficient linear distance along the distal lead, such as will result ina lead that, as a single lead, is capable of providing medicallyadequate therapeutic stimulation over the entire hemicranium; that is,over the frontal, parietal, and occipital region substantiallysimultaneously. Currently available systems, which were designedspecifically for epidural placement for chronic back pain, are capableof only providing stimulation over a single region; that is over eitherthe frontal region alone, or the parietal region alone, or the occipitalregion alone.

Currently available leads, which were designed specifically for epiduralplacement for chronic back pain, are capable of only providingstimulation over a single region; that is over either the frontal regionalone, or the parietal region alone, or the occipital region alone.

In yet another aspect, the implantable, head-located, neurostimulationsystem for head pain comprises multiple design features, including thephysical grouping of the extended array of surface electrodes into threeor more discrete terminal surface electrode arrays. The linear layout ofthese two or more (preferably three or more) surface electrodes arraysis designed such that following implantation there would be at least onearray positioned over the frontal region, at least one array positionedover the parietal region, and at least one array positioned over theoccipital region. This feature further improves upon therapeuticeffectiveness of the extended terminal surface electrode arraysufficient for hemicranial stimulation by allowing for more precisecontrol of the therapeutic neurostimulation parameters.

In still another aspect, the implantable, head-located, neurostimulationsystem for head pain comprises multiple design features, includingincorporating individual design features within each of the three ormore individual surface electrode arrays; examples of such intra-arraydesign features would include the specific number of electrodes allottedto each group; whether the electrodes are cylindrical or flattened; thewidth of each electrode within each array, and the linear distanceintervals of separation of the electrodes within each array. Thisfeature further improves upon therapeutic effectiveness of the extendedterminal surface electrode array sufficient for hemicranial stimulation,and the grouping of these electrodes into three or more separate surfaceelectrode arrays, by providing each specific array location with aunique intra-array design that takes into account, and thereby seeks tooptimize, design elements that are known to be possibly or likelybeneficial to the therapeutic end result, given the anticipatedpost-implant anatomic location of that array.

In yet another aspect, the implantable, head-located, neurostimulationsystem for head pain comprises multiple design features, includingincorporating individual design features into a single lead design andthereby achieving additive benefits.

In still another aspect, an implantable, head-located, neurostimulationsystem for head pain results in a marked decrease in the number ofseparate lead implants required to adequately treat a single patient. Asingle implant will provide the same therapeutic anatomic coverage thatit would take the implantation of three or four of the currentlyavailable leads; that is, instead of the current implant, which oftencalls for three or more leads to be implanted to provide adequatehemicranial coverage, the same anatomic region may be covered with asingle stimulator lead implant. The lead can provide extended coverageover the full hemicranium; that is achieving medically acceptableneurostimulation unilaterally over the frontal, parietal, and occipitalregions simultaneously. In contrast, publically known leads are able toconsistently provide medically acceptable neurostimulation therapy onlyover a single region; meaning that it would require three separatesurgically placed lead implants to achieve the same therapeutic coverageof a single implant of a lead of the present disclosure. This willdecrease the total number of surgeries required, as well as the extentof each individual surgery, for many patients.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a system thatis fully localized to the head, which obviates the requirement ofcurrently available systems of having long leads and extensionsextending across the neck and back to IPG locations commonly in the lowback and gluteal region, and thereby decreases the risk of problemsattendant to such long leads and extensions, including discomfort,infection, technical extension issues such as fracture, and othermorbidities. This ultimately results in a decreased number of surgeriesrequired by a patient.

In other aspects the system may include one or more of the followingfeatures. A neurostimulating lead may not require a central channel fora stylet, which would be necessary to secure the lead against migration.A neurostimulating lead may have a smaller diameter than currentlyavailable leads.

In other aspects the system may include one or more of the followingfeatures. The system may include the disposition of a sufficientplurality of surface electrodes over a sufficient linear distance alongthe system's leads to enable medically adequate therapeutic stimulationacross multiple regions of the head, and preferably the entirehemicranium; that is, over the frontal, parietal, and occipital regionsimultaneously. The extended array of surface electrodes may be dividedinto two or more discrete terminal surface electrode arrays, eachcapable of being designed for the particular associated region to bestimulated. The preferred linear layout of these multiple surfaceelectrode arrays includes at least one array positioned over the frontalregion, at least one array positioned over the parietal region, and atleast one array positioned over the occipital region.

In other aspects, intra-array design features may include variations inthe specific number of electrodes allotted to each group; the shape ofthe electrodes, e.g., whether the electrodes are cylindrical orflattened; the width of each electrode within each array, and the lineardistance intervals of separation of the electrodes within each array.

In other aspects, the system may include a plurality of connection portsthat can be connected with a plurality of leads and thus allow forattaching additional leads should they later be required.

In another aspect, an implantable, head-located, neurostimulation systemfor head pain comprises multiple design features; including featuresaimed at improving patient safety by improving the incidence of adverseevents, including the risk of infection, as well as the risk andincidence of known technical problems associated with implanted leads,including lead migration and lead fracture, amongst others. The lead maycomprise two or more (i.e. three or more) surface electrode arrays, eachuniquely designed, that are disposed over a sufficient lead length toallow for medically acceptable therapeutic neurostimulator coverage ofat least regions within the supraorbital, parietal, and occipitalcranial regions. To achieve the same clinical coverage from a prior artimplant, it would require three or more separately surgically implantedleads that are first implanted, followed by waking the patient up andactivating the electrodes to determine if they are properly placed, andonce the surgeon is satisfied, the leads are connected to an IPG and theIPG disposed in a pocket somewhere in the body, typically in the lowertorso. Therefore, by reducing the number of surgical incisions, as wellas the number of surgically implanted leads, the associated risks ofadverse events are proportionally diminished.

In yet another aspect, an implantable, head-located, neurostimulationsystem for head pain may treat chronic head and/or face pain of multipleetiologies, including migraine headaches; and other primary headaches,including cluster headaches, hemicrania continua headaches, tension typeheadaches, chronic daily headaches, transformed migraine headaches;further including secondary headaches, such as cervicogenic headachesand other secondary musculoskeletal headaches; including neuropathichead and/or face pain, nociceptive head and/or face pain, and/orsympathetic related head and/or face pain; including greater occipitalneuralgia, as well as the other various occipital neuralgias,supraorbital neuralgia, auriculotemporal neuralgia, infraorbitalneuralgia, and other trigeminal neuralgias, and other head and faceneuralgias.

In other aspects, an implantable, head-located, neurostimulation systemfor head pain may not require a central channel for stylet placementover its distal (frontal) portions. The lead may improve patient comfortand cosmetics by virtue of its relatively small diameter over the distalportions of the lead, partially due the lack of a central styletchannel, as well as due to a progressive decrease in the number ofinternal wires continuing after each terminal electrode. The lead mayfurther improve cosmetic appearance and patient comfort by incorporatinga flattened lead design for that portion of the lead expected to be overthe frontal portion of the head. The lead may be compatible withcurrently available implantable pulse generators. The lead mayincorporate an electrode array design that is capable as a single leadof providing medically acceptable neurostimulation coverage over thesupraorbital, auriculotemporal, and occipital nerves unilaterally. Thelead may be of sufficient length to adequately reach all common pulsegenerator locations, thereby potentially obviating the need for leadextensions and in turn decreasing the risk of problems attendant to suchextensions, including discomfort, infection, technical extension issuessuch as fracture, and other morbidities. The single lead may be operableto provide medically acceptable neurostimulation coverage that treatshead pain over the frontal, lateral, and posterior regions. The singlelead may be operable to provide medically acceptable therapeuticneurostimulation coverage that would otherwise often require unilateralleads (six total leads if, as is common, the pain isglobal/holocephalic), thereby resulting in a decrease in the number ofpatients that require more than one associated Implantable PulseGenerator (IPG). Currently available IPGs are capable of accepting amaximum of four leads, each having the ability to cover only oneanatomic region, as each lead only has one active array. The lead mayinclude a progressively tapering diameter over the lead segmentcontaining t three active arrays, a feature serving clinicalimprovements in patient comfort and cosmetics. The lead may furthercomprise a distal array disposed over a thin, flattened terminal portionof the lead, which is the portion intended to be positioned over thesupraorbital (frontal) region, a feature serving clinical improvementsin patient comfort and cosmetics.

Thus the present disclosure provides for a peripheral neurostimulationlead that is uniquely designed for subcutaneous implantation in the headas a therapy for chronic head pain, and is designed to solve the knowndesign issues associated with current leads, as the lead of the presentdisclosure seeks to optimize the therapeutic response, improve patientcomfort, improve cosmetics, reduce the number of surgical leadsrequired, reduce medical risk, and reduce medical costs.

B. OVERVIEW

Turning now to the drawings, which depict the system and several of itscomponents in various aspects and views, and in which similar referencenumerals denote similar elements. The drawings illustrate an IPG fromwhich two neurostimulating leads may extend to a length sufficient toallow for therapeutic neurostimulation unilaterally over the frontal,parietal and occipital regions. The leads include an extended plasticlead body; a plurality of surface metal electrodes disposed along thelead, which may be divided into two or more electrode arrays; aplurality of internal electrically conducting metal wires running alongat least a portion of its length and individually connecting the IPG'sinternal circuit to individual surface metal electrodes. The implantablepulse generator includes a rechargeable battery, an antenna coil, andASIC. The system may be operable to provide medically acceptabletherapeutic neurostimulation to multiple regions of the head, includingthe frontal, parietal and occipital regions simultaneously, and threefigures demonstrate various views of this feature as the lead isdepicted in-situ.

C. FULL HEAD-LOCATED NEUROSTIMULATOR SYSTEM

FIG. 1 depicts a side view of a full neurostimulator system, whichconsists of an implantable pulse generator (IPG) 10 along with twounibody plastic lead extensions—a Fronto-Parietal Lead (FPL) 20 and anOccipital Lead (OL) 30 of adequate length to extend to roughly themidline of the forehead and to the midline at the cervico-cranialjunction, respectively. Arrows 28 indicate the point of cross section ofFIG. 4.

FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 depict posterior, lateral and frontal views of thesystem in-situ. The unit is demonstrated in an implant position wherethe IPG 10 is posterior and cephalad to the pinna of the ear. Thedrawings demonstrate the complete neurostimulator system implantsubcutaneously with the FPL 20 passing over the parietal 60 and frontal70 regions of the head, including auriculotemporal nerve 61 andsupraorbital nerve 71, in a manner that places the FEA over thesupraorbital nerve 71 and the PEA over the auriculotemporal nerve 61.The OL 30 is shown passing caudally and medially over the occipitalregion of the head 50 such that the OEA 35 cross over the greateroccipital nerve 51 and the lesser occipital nerve 52, and the thirdoccipital nerve.

D. FRONTO-PARIETAL LEAD

Continuing with FIG. 1, the FPL 20 as part of the unibody construction,is connected to and extends from the IPG. The FPL 20 comprises a plasticbody member 20 a and a set of internal conducting wires 29.

The plastic body member 20 a is an elongated, cylindrical, flexiblemember, which may be formed of a medical grade plastic polymer. It has aproximal end 22, a distal end 21, and may be conceptually divided intofive segments along its linear dimension. Progressing from the proximalend 22, these segments sequentially include a proximal lead segment(PLS) 22 a, a parietal electrode array (PEA) 26, an inter-array interval27, a frontal electrode array (FEA) 25, and a distal non-stimulating tip23.

The lead internal wires 29 pass along the interior of the plastic bodymember as depicted in FIG. 4.

E. FRONTAL ELECTRODE ARRAY

Continuing with FIG. 1, the FEA 25 is disposed at the distal end of theFPL 20 and consists of a plurality of surface metal electrodes (SMEs) 24uniformly disposed over a portion of the distal aspect of the FPL 20.Lead internal wires 29 connect to the SME 24 as depicted in FIG. 2,which represents the distal four SMEs 24 of the lead. The distal fourSMEs 24 associated with the array 25 have an interelectrode spacing anddesign that is specific to stimulating the frontal region. Also, thenumber of electrodes required for the array will be a function of theparticular region, the frontal region, that is being treated. As will bedescribed hereinbelow, each of these electrodes can be designated as ananode or a cathode and any combination can be designated to be energizedin a set up procedure performed by a clinician. This provides aconfiguration that can be adapted to a particular patient at aparticular placement of the FEA 25.

F. PARIETAL ELECTRODE ARRAY

Returning to FIG. 1, the PEA 26 consists of a plurality of SMEs 24uniformly disposed along a linear portion of the FPL. The PEA 26 isseparated along the FPL from the FEA by an inter-array interval 27. Itis separated on the lead from the IPG by the PLS 22 a. The lead internalwires 29 connect to the individual SME 24 of the PEA in the same fashionas they do with respect to the SME of the FEA as shown in FIG. 2. As wasthe case with respect to the FEA 25, the SMEs 24 of the PEA 26 have aninterelectrode spacing and design that is specific for stimulating thenerves in the parietal region. Also, the number of electrodes requiredfor the array will be a function of the particular region, the parietalregion, that is being treated. As will be described hereinbelow, each ofthese electrodes can be designated as an anode or a cathode and anycombination can be designated to be energized in a set up procedureperformed by a clinician. This provides a configuration that can beadapted to a particular patient at a particular placement of the array25.

Typically, the FPL 20 is a single lead having the two arrays, 25 and 26,disposed along the length thereof. The diameter and the shape of thislead can be uniform or it can be of any shape that facilitates surgicalplacement of the lead. However, with a single lead, two distinct regionsof the cranium can be therapeutically treated, each independentlycontrolled by the IPG 10 via the leads 29 and each having a design viathe interelectrode spacing and even the electrode configuration tofacilitate the requirements of such therapeutic treatment of aparticular region associated with a particular set of nerves. This,thus, requires only a single incision to feed the FPL 20 from theincision point to a particular region.

G. OCCIPITAL LEAD

Continuing with FIG. 1, the occipital lead (OL) 30 is an integral partof the unibody construction, and extends from the IPG 10. It comprises aplastic body member 39 and a set of lead internal wires 38 that passthrough the central cylinder of the lead to connect to a series of SME34, each of surface electrode width 37, that are uniformly disposed atan interelectrode distance 36 from each other along a portion of thelength of the lead. These lead internal wires 38 pass and connect in thesame manner as described above for the SMEs 24 of the FEA 25 and the PEA26 as depicted in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4.

The plastic body member 39 is an elongated, cylindrical, flexiblemember, which may be formed of a medical grade plastic polymer. It has aproximal end 32 and a distal end 31. Progressing along the lead from theproximal end 32, these segments sequentially include a proximal leadsegment (PLS) 32 a, an occipital electrode array (OEA) 35, and a distalnon-stimulating tip 33.

H. OCCIPITAL LEAD ARRAY

As depicted in FIG. 1, the OEA 35 consists of a plurality of surfacemetal electrodes (SME) 34 uniformly disposed over a portion OL 30. Leadinternal wires 38 connect to the SME 24 in the same fashion as depictedfor the FEA as shown in FIG. 2. As was the case with respect to the FEA25 and the PEA 26, the SMEs 34 of the OL 30 have an interelectrodespacing and design that is specific for stimulating the occipitalregion. Also, the number of electrodes required for the array will be afunction of the particular region, the occipital region, that is beingtreated. As will be described hereinbelow, each of these electrodes canbe designated as an anode or a cathode and any combination can bedesignated to be energized in a set up procedure performed by aclinician. This provides a configuration that can be adapted to aparticular patient at a particular placement of the OL 30.

I. IMPLANTABLE PULSE GENERATOR

Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, the three primary physical andfunctional components of the IPG 10 include a rechargeable battery 12,an antenna 11, and an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) 13,along with the necessary internal wire connections amongst these relatedcomponents, as well as to the incoming lead internal wires 29, 39. Theseindividual components may be encased in common interior 15 that mayinclude a can made of a medical grade metal and plastic cover 14, whichitself transitions over the exiting FPL 20 and OL 30.

Battery 12 is connected to the ASIC 13 via a connection that isflexible. The overall enclosure for the battery 12, antenna 11 and ASIC13 has a very low flat profile (seen in a top view in FIG. 1) with twolobes, one low for housing the ASIC 13 and one low for housing thebattery 12. The antenna 11 can be housed in either of the lobes or inboth lobes, this being a function of the coupling to an outsidecommunication/charging source. By utilizing the two lobes and theflexible connection between the ASIC 13 and the battery 12, this allowsthe IPG 10 to conform to the shape of the human cranium whensubcutaneously implanted without securing such to any underlyingstructure with an external fixator.

The ASIC 13 is operable to interface with the lines 29 in the FPL 20 andthe lines 39 in the OL 34 driving the respective SMEs 24, 34. The ASIC13 is a state machine that is configured to provide stimulation signalsin the form of pulses, variable frequencies, etc., to the respectiveelectrodes in accordance with a predetermined program. Once the programis loaded and initiated, the state machine will execute the particularprograms to provide the necessary therapeutic stimulation. The ASIC 13has memory associated there with and a communication capability, inaddition to charge control to charge battery 12. Each of the set ofwires 29 and 39 interface with the ASIC 13 such that the ASIC 13individually controls each of the wires in the particular bundle ofwires. Thus, each electrode in each of the arrays, 25, 26 and 35, can beindividually controlled. As noted hereinabove, each electrode can bedesignated as an anode or a cathode, or it can even be turned off.

During a charging operation, the IPG 10 is interfaced with an externalcharging unit via the antenna 11 which is coupled to a similar antennaor coil in the external charging unit (not shown). The chargingoperation is controlled by the ASIC 13, as the battery 12, in oneembodiment, can include the use of a lithium ion battery. It isimportant for power management to control the amount of charge deliveredto the battery, the charging rate thereof and to protect the battery 12from being overcharged.

Additionally, the ASIC 13 is capable of communicating with an externalunit, typically part of the external charging unit, to transferinformation thereto and receive information there from. In this manner,configuration information can be downloaded to the ASIC 13 and statusinformation can be retrieved therefrom. Although not illustrated herein,a headset or such is provided for such external charging/communicationoperation.

K. CONNECTIONS OF MAIN ELEMENTS AND SUB-ELEMENTS

The system may include a unibody construction to provide physical andfunctional continuity of the related components and sub-components. Thisunibody construction is basically an enclosure that encloses the entireIPG and the interface with the FPL 20 and the OL 30. The FPL 20 and theOL 30 are separate assemblies that are attached to the ASIC 13 viaeither a connector or via a hardwired connection. The FPL 20 and the OL30 are totally enclosed and sealed with only the distal end of leads 29,39 extending therefrom. Once attached to the ASIC 13, or the PC boardassociated there with, a material is disposed about the entire IPG 10 toprovide a seal therefore which extends over the IPG 10 and the proximalends 22 and 32 of the FPL 20 and OL 30, respectively. With such aunibody construction, a surgeon need only make one incision tosubcutaneously insert the entire assembly including both the IPG 10 andassociated leads in a desired region in the cranium, typically justbehind the parietal bone and slightly above the mastoid bone and thepinna. This allows the FPL 20 to be fed around toward the frontal boneand the OL 30 to be fed backwards toward the occipital bone. Thus, theentire neurostimulator system will be disposed subcutaneously about thecranium and will require no anchor. Without the requirement for ananchor, there is no protuberance required in the IPG 10, allowing theIPG 10 to be completely sealed. This is facilitated by the fact thatvery little movement will occur with respect to the tissue surroundingthe IPG 10 after implantation thereof. Due to this minimal amount ofmovement, no stylet will be required (but such can be incorporated ifdesired) to secure either the FPL 20 or the OL 30 in place to underlyingfascia.

The overall mechanistic purpose of an implantable neurostimulationsystem is to generate and conduct a prescribed electrical pulse wavefrom an IPG 10 down a set of lead internal wires 29, 38 running aportion of the length of the lead to specified programmed set of SME 24,34, whereby the current is then conducted by tissue and/or fluid to anadjacent, or nearby, set of one or more SME 24, 34, which in turn passesthe signal proximally down the lead wire 29, 38 back to the IPG 10 andits ASIC 13, thus completing the circuit.

L. FIRST EMBODIMENT

The first embodiment provides for the implantation of theneurostimulator system that incorporates one or more of the featuresoutlined above and includes a head-located, unibody neurostimulatingsystem comprising an IPG 10 and at least two neurostimulating leads (FPL20 and OL 30). The system may be implanted in a manner such that the IPG10 and two leads 20, 30 are subcutaneously disposed as illustrated inFIG. 5, FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. The IPG 10 is capable of functionallyconnecting to and communicating with a portable programmer 40 and anexternal power source for battery recharging.

In this embodiment, the leads are constructed as described above and asdepicted in the drawings. The FPL 20 is approximately 26 cm in lengthfrom its proximal end 22 to its distal end 21. The FPL 20 has a distalnon-stimulating tip of approximately 3 mm in length that abuts the FEA,which may have ten SME 24 uniformly disposed over approximately 8 cm.This is followed by an inter-array interval 27 of approximately 4 cm,then the PEA, which may include eight SME 24 uniformly disposed overapproximately 6 cm, and finally a proximal lead segment 22 a that endsat the proximal end 22, where the lead transitions to the IPG 10 and thelead internal wires 29, 38 connect to the ASIC 13.

In this embodiment, the occipital lead may comprise a plastic bodymember 39 over which six SME 34 may be disposed uniformly overapproximately a 10 cm length of the lead, and the lead terminates inapproximately a 3 mm distal non-stimulating tip 33.

In this embodiment, the IPG 10 comprises the elements described aboveand depicted in the drawings, including an ASIC 13, a rechargeablebattery 12, and an antenna 11, which all may be housed in a medicalgrade metal can with plastic cover 14. In this embodiment the dimensionsof the IPG 10 measured along the outer surface of the plastic cover 14may be approximately 5 cm by 3 cm by 0.5 mm.

The system includes a portable programmer 40 and a portable rechargingunit, both of which functionally couple to the IPG through aradiofrequency mechanism.

In this embodiment, the system is capable of handling a program from theportable programmer 40 that includes such parameters as pulse amplitude,frequency and pulse width.

The procedure itself involves the permanent subcutaneous implantation ofan IPG with multi-lead, multi-array neurostimulator system. The patientmay have had a period of trial neurostimulation, which is standard intraditional neurostimulator evaluations but is optional here. The actualpermanent implant takes place in a standard operating suite withappropriate sterile precautions and is typically performed under generalanesthesia with the patient positioned prone with the hair and bodyprepped and draped.

While the IPG may be positioned subcutaneously anywhere over the head orupper cervical region, in this embodiment it is positioned above andbehind the ear. Thus, at a position approximately 1-2 cm above the earand a couple of cm posterior to the ear, a Supraorbital Incision ofsufficient length (approximately 4-6 cm) is made to a depth sufficientto reach the subcutaneous layer. At the posterior aspect of thisincision a pocket to accept the IPG is fashioned by standard dissectiontechniques. The pocket should be 10-20% larger than the IPG itself toallow for a comfortable fit and no undue tension on the overlying skinand/or incision. A second approximately 1-2 cm incision is made to thesubcutaneous layer at a point above and anterior to the pinna of the earin the temple region.

In this embodiment, in the supra-auricular incision, a tubularintroducer with a plastic-peel away shell (Peel-Away Introducer) isadvanced subcutaneously from the supra-auricular incision to the templeincision. The FL is then passed per the introducer, whereby thepeel-away shell is removed leaving the proximal segment of the FL inposition in the subcutaneous layer. A new Peel-Away Introducer is thenadvanced subcutaneously from the Temple Incision medially and commonly1-2 cm above the eyebrow to its final position where the distal tip ofthe lead approximates the midline; a position that results in thefrontal electrode array (FEA) over the superficial nerves of the frontalregion.

In this embodiment, and prior to activation thereof, the IPG is nextpositioned in the previously fashioned subcutaneous pocket posterior tothe supra-auricular incision. Then, from the inferior aspect of thesupra-auricular incision a new peel-away introducer is advancedsubcutaneously medially, and inferiorly to cross the nerve region of theoccipital region such that the distal tip of the introducer approximatesthe midline. Per the introducer the OL is passed, whereby the Peel-AwayIntroducer is then removed, leaving the lead in position with its activearray over the superficial nerves of the occipital region.

Following the entire placement of the complete system, including the IPGand both leads and suturing, the neurostimulator unit is then powered-upand its circuits checked. Upon recovery from anesthesia the system isturned on for the patient with a portable programmer and the multipleparameters for the system programmed to an optimal therapeutic endpointfor the patient.

In this embodiment, the implantable unit contains a multi-year batterythat is capable of being recharged from an external source.

In this embodiment, the system is capable of handling a program from theportable programmer 40 that includes such parameters as pulse amplitude,frequency and pulse width. The system is charge balanced, currentcontrolled and rechargeable at preferably intervals that exceed oneweek. The preferred stimulation paradigm may be current controlled,voltage controlled, or a combination of both. The pulsing may be chargebalanced or charge imbalanced. The preferred work cycle is between 10and 100%.

FIGS. 8A and 8B depicts a front view and a top view, respectively, of aPortable Programmer 40 for a Head-Mounted Neurostimulator System. TheProgrammer 40 is specifically designed for application to theHead-Mounted System and specifically for use with patients with migraineand other head pain. The figure is labelled independently. On the frontof the Programmer 40 is disposed a liquid crystal display 41 fordisplaying one side of the head of individual. In the upper left-handcorner of the display 41, there is illustrated an orientation for theleft side of the head. As noted herein, there can be provided twoimplanted Neurostimulator Systems, one for the right and one for theleft side of the head. Thus, the user can select between both sides fordisplay.

The illustrated image includes an image of the left side of the headthat is divided into three sections. There is a first frontal sectionincluding the supraorbital nerve region, a medial section including theparietal nerve region and a distal section that includes the occipitalnerves. As noted herein, the programmer 40 is operable to interfacedthrough a headset or external charging/communication circuit (not shown)with one or more implanted neurostimulator systems. Thus, there isprovided a display area 43 in the LCD display for depicting the rechargelevel of the Programmer 40 and a display area 42 for depicting thecharge level of each neurostimulator system, one for the left and onefor the right, if two neurostimulator systems are implanted and beingmonitored. For each section of the displayed head image, the frontal,the medial and the distal, there is illustrated a percentage of valueillustrating the percentage level of stimulation that is being applied.There are provided left and right toggle buttons 45 that allow aparticular section to be selected and increase/decreased buttons 46 toincrease and decrease the level of stimulation. A confirm button 47 isprovided for actually entering information after selection thereof. Alot button is disposed on the upper side, as illustrated in FIG. 8B.

FIG. 9 depicts a side view of a head and the initial interventional stepin the procedure for implanting the Neurostimulator system. Prominenthere are depictions of the two incisions required for placement of theneurostimulator: 1) a supraauricular incision where the IPG will beimplanted and from which the FPL and OL are tunneled subcutaneously totheir final subcutaneous positions over the Fronto-Parietal andOccipital regions respectively, and 2) a Temple Subcutaneous Incisionper which the FPL is initially passed from the IPG in theSupra-auricular Incision, whereupon it is again passed subcutaneously toits final subcutaneous position over the nerves of the supraorbitalregion. Four drawn lines are also depicted which are used as referencesto define relative positions for incisions and passing the leads. Whatis illustrated is the parietal region of head 60 wherein lines are drawnabout the pinna. A horizontal supra-pinna line is disposed above theapex 63 of the pinna, a vertical pre-pinna line 64 is drawn to thefrontal side of the pinna, a vertical mid-pinna line 65 is drawn downthe medial section of the pinna, a vertical post-pinna line 66 is drawnat the back of the pinna and a horizontal supra-pinna line 67 is drawnabove the pinna. In this embodiment, the supra-auricular subcutaneousincision 68 is disposed above the line 68 inbetween the two lines 65 and66. The lower point 68 a of the incision 68 is disposed almost exactlybetween the two lines 65 and 66 and extends upward at an angle distal tothe pinna. A Temple subcutaneous incision 69 is disposed forward of theline 64 with a lower point 69 a of the incision being disposed atapproximately the level of the line 67 forward of the line 64 andextending an angle upward and frontal to the point 69 a.

FIG. 10 depicts a side view of the head and the next step of theprocedure following that depicted and described in FIG. 9. The sameincisions are depicted as referenced in FIG. 9; the Supra-auricularIncision 68 and Temple Incision 69. A traditional tubular Peel-AwayIntroducer 95 is depicted as having been passed subcutaneously from theSupra-auricular Incision to the Temple Incision. This introducer 95provides a lumen through which to pass in the league 20 after insertionthereof. The introducer 95 is comprised of two parts that are connectedtogether with a serrated or breakable connection. Once the lead 20 ispassed through the lumen of the introducer 95, it can be fully pulledthrough such that the frontal portion 25 is pulled all the way throughthe incision 69. The peel away introducer 95 can then be extracted bypulling each edge, there being two extensions for grabbing either's sideof the introducer and peeling away, leaving the lead in place betweenincision 68 and 69. It can be seen that the IPG 10 and the assembly 30are still not implanted, nor is the FEA 25. Thus, the FPL is passedthrough the Peel-Away Introducer, which is depicted in this drawing asbeginning to separate in the act of being removed. Note that the OL andthe Distal Segment of the FPL are still exterior to the skin.

FIG. 11 depicts a side view of the head and the next step of theprocedure following that depicted and described with respect to FIG. 10.Prominent here is the depiction of a new Peel-Away Introducer as havingbeen passed subcutaneously from the Temple Incision 69 to its finalposition proximate to the supraorbital nerve region where its distal tipapproximates the midline, and the FEA is in the Subcutaneous Layer,which places it over the nerves of the Supraorbital Region. The ProximalLead Segment of the FPL is depicted as having been positionedsubcutaneously such that the PEA is positioned in the Subcutaneous Layerover the nerves of the associated Parietal Region. The IPG 10 and OL 30are depicted as remaining exterior to the incision 68 at this point inthe procedure.

FIG. 12 depicts a frontal view of the FL as having been positionedsubcutaneously as discussed in FIG. 11. The FL is depicted having itsFEA in its subcutaneous position where it is crossing over andsuperficial to the nerves of the Frontal Region, including here theSupraorbital Nerve 71 and the Supratrochlear Nerve 72.

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict a side view of the next step in the procedureafter the step depicted and described with respect to FIGS. 11 and 12.Prominent here are the IPG 10 and OL 30 which have been passed andpositioned subcutaneously in the IPG pocket and over the nerves of theOccipital Region, respectively. The FPL 20 b is depicted as having beenpassed subcutaneously as demonstrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. Also prominentis a blow-up view of the Supra-Auricular Incision 68 at this step inFIG. 13B, where the IPG 10 a is pictured in its Subcutaneous Pocket andthe most proximal segments of the FPL 20 b and OL 30 b are depicted asthey enter the subcutaneous spaces in route to their final positions asdepicted in the previous figures. Of note is the Peel-Away Introducer 95over the OL 30 b, which is depicted as just being separated as part ofthe procedure of removing it. The FPL 20 b is depicted as having beenpasssed subcutaneously to its final position as depicted in the previousfigures. The IPG 10 a can either be inserted into the IPG subcutaneouspocket prior to insertion of the OL 30 b into the introducer 95 or inthe opposite sequence.

FIG. 14 depicts a cross-section view of the skin at the Supra-auricularIncision 68 at the stage of the procedure depicted in FIG. 13. Prominentwithin the subcutaneous layer 82 is the IPG 10 a in its SubcutaneousPocket, as well as the initial proximal segments of the FPL 20 b and theOL 30 b as they pass per the Subcutaneous Layer. The Peel-AwayIntroducer 95 noted in FIG. 13 is also prominent. Once the peel awayintroducer 95 is removed, the Supra-auricular Incision 68 can be closed.At this point in time, the incision is closed prior to activating theIPG 10 a. It could, of course, be activated prior to closing of theincision but at this stage, the Neurostimulator System is completelyimplanted and all the leads positioned.

FIG. 15 depicts a cross-section view of the skin at the point where theActive Electrode Array of the OL 30 b has been positioned over(superficial to) the Subcutaneous Layer, which lies between thesuperficial Dermis and the underlying Fascia. The Muscle Layer,Aponeurosis and the Boney Skull are represented as sequentially deeperlayers beneath the Fascia. The regions illustrated are the Boney skull86 over which lies a thin layer 85, the Aponeurosis, over which lies amuscle layer 84, over which lies the subcutaneous tissue layer 82 andfinally the dermis 81. Illustrated within the subcutaneous tissue layer82 is a cross-section of the greater occipital nerve 51 a. The OL 30 bis disposed within the subcutaneous tissue layer 82 above the greateroccipital nerve 51 a.

FIG. 16 depicts a view of the head from the top after the fullneurostimulator system has been implanted. Prominent here are the fullsystem, including the IPG 10 b, FPL 20 b and OL 30 b, which all liewithin the Subcutaneous Layer. Also prominent are the FEA 25, the PEA26, the OEA 35 in their final positions over (superficial to) thecorresponding nerves in the Frontal Region, the Parietal Region, and theOccipital Region respectively.

FIG. 17 depicts two implanted IPGs with leads to cover both sides of thehead. The two structures are numbered identically with respect to theircompliments, and they are implanted identically, one on the left side ofthe head and one on the right side of the head, as described above.

FIG. 18 depicts one implanted IPG with leads to cover both sides of thehead. In this embodiment, the FPL20 b extends from the IPG 10 a on oneside of the head around the parietal region on that side of the head,the two frontal regions and on the parietal region on the opposite sideof the head such that there are two PEAs 26, two FEAs 25 and two OEAs35. This, of course, requires an incision to be made on the temporalregion on the side of the head on which the IPG 10 is implanted and afrontal incision made to allow the FPA 20 to be routed to and in afrontal incision and then to a temporal incision on the upside the headand finally to the parietal region on the upside the head. This is thesame with respect to the occipital lead 30 that must be routed throughpossibly an additional acetylene incision of the back of the head. Allthat is required is the ability to route particular leads to therespective regions proximate the nerves associated therewith. This willallow a single IPG 10 to cover two frontal regions, two parietal regionsand two occipital regions.

Thus, the procedure to implant, in summary, is to first provide aneurostimulator system that has a unibody construction comprised of anIPG integrated with the leads as opposed to a separate system whereinthe leads are implanted first, positioned, activated and then connectedto the IPG. Then the IPG implanted into an associated pocket. With theunibody construction of the disclosed neurostimulator system, thisrequires each of the multiple leads to first be positioned proximate toa desired nerve region through one or more incisions through thesubcutaneous layer. This typically involves a single initial incisionthat is associated with the subcutaneous pocket for the IPG, wherein theleads are first inserted through the incision to the particular nerveregion subcutaneously and then the IPG disposed within the pocketsubcutaneously. However, the IPG is not secured to an underlyingstructure, such as bone or fascia. The reason for this is that the IPGis, first, very lightweight, and second, disposed in an area of theskull that is subject to very little movement, thus minimizing thepossibility of any migration of the leads.

M. ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS

There are multiple alternate embodiments that preserve the features ofthe neurostimulation system disclosed herein, which include anexternally rechargeable and programmable IPG, sized and configured forimplantation in the head, and from which fronto-parietal and occipitalleads, along with their respect surface metal electrode arrays, extendto cover multiple regions of the head. In various embodiments, thespacing and dimensions of the electrode array(s) for each specific arraymay be constant, or the electrode arrays may be specifically designedwith respect to electrode type, dimensions, and layout for improving thetherapeutic effectiveness for the specific cranial region it is to beassociated with. The multiple alternate embodiments also include asubcutaneously positioned unibody neurostimulator device that containsan IPG and two leads, one with a single electrode array and the otherwith two electrode arrays.

Thus, the disclosure comprises extended electrode array designs (two ormore regions by a single lead), and/or multiple arrays and optimizedintra-array electrode dispositions. The disclosure also comprises leadconfigurations, which include the capability of a modular lead designthat provides for ports on either the standard FPL and OLs. In anotherembodiment, the IPG may receive additional separate leads, if and asnecessary either at the time of initial implant or in the future.

Further, the lead lengths, along with the specific technical makeup anddimensions of the individual surface metal electrodes and electrodearrays, may be varied to include more or less than three unilateralregions of the head (occipital, parietal, and frontal) contemplated bythe first embodiment. For example, a single IPG may energize and controlmultiple additional leads of varying lengths that ultimately could bedisposed over virtually every region of the head and face bilaterally,to thus cover multiple and disparate regions, with each of these leadsand arrays of electrodes associated therewith designed for a particularcranial region. Further, each of these leads can have one or moredisparate arrays associated therewith so as to accommodate more than asingle cranial region, this single multi-array lead allowing a singleincision to accommodate these multiple regions.

At least two electrodes may be included per region (an thus per array),and while the first embodiment calls for a total of 24 electrodesdisposed over three arrays covering three different regions of thehead—the occipital, parietal and frontal regions—there is no absolutelimit to the maxim (or minimum) number of electrodes. Similarly, whilethe first embodiment calls for three electrode arrays, the disclosurecontemplates two, or even one array (so long as the arrays covers atleast two regions). There is also no limiting maximum for the number ofarrays. Also, there may be multiple variations of design within eachseparate array, including for example, variations in the number,dimensions, shape, and metal composition of the individual electrodes,as well as the distance and constancy of distance between electrodes,within each array. Further, each array may have the same or completelydifferent designs.

While the neurostimulation system has been described for subcutaneousimplantation as a peripheral neurostimulator in the head and for headpain, it is capable of being implanted and used as a peripheral nervestimulator over other regions of the head and face than described aboveand also over other peripheral nerves in the body.

In another embodiment the IPG may be positioned subcutaneously overvirtually any other point of the head that can accept the unit.

In another embodiment the leads may be passed such that their respectiveelectrode arrays over positioned subcutaneously over other painfulregions of the face, head and neck.

In another embodiment the leads may be passed by measures other than astandard Peel-Away Introducer. For example they may be passed per theprevious retrograde positioning of a standard, metal tubular introducer,which is then removed over the lead once it has been positioned.

While a common embodiment includes the implantation of twoneurostimulator systems (one on each side), other embodiments mayinclude only system or may include more than two systems. These woulddepend upon the nature, location and extension of a patient's painreport.

While the neurostimulation system has been described for implantation asa peripheral neurostimulator in the head and for head pain, it iscapable of being implanted and used as a peripheral nerve stimulatorover other regions of the head and face than described above and alsoover other peripheral nerves in the body.

N. OPERATION

When functioning; that is when the internal circuit of lead internalwires is connected to an IPG; the SMEs of the various arrays areprogrammed to function as anodes and cathodes. The ASIC 13 then driveswith a generated electrical pulse wave then passes from the ASIC of theIPG to the associated internal lead wire, and ultimately to itsassociated terminal surface metal electrode. The current then passes ashort distance from the subcutaneous tissue, within which theneurostimulator system is implanted, to a contiguous, or nearby,electrode, whereby it passes back up the lead to its associated proximalmetal contact, and then back to the IPG and the ASIC 13 to complete thecircuit. The generated pulse waves pass through the subcutaneous tissuebetween two terminal electrodes that stimulates the sensory nerves ofthe area. As noted hereinabove, the configuration for the ASIC 13 candefine certain of the SMEs as anodes and certain of the SMEs ascathodes. When active, the IPG may be programmed to produce continuousseries of pulse waves of specified frequency, amplitude, and pulsewidth. It is this series of pulse waves actively stimulating a patient'slocally associated nerves that underpins the therapeutic effect of theimplanted unit. The electrical pulse wave then passes from a connectedproximal surface metal contact, along the associated internal lead wire,and ultimately to its associated terminal surface metal contact.

With respect to FIGS. 5, 6 and 7. The neurostimulator system issubcutaneously implanted on the left side of the hemicranium over therespective nerve regions. The main body of the IPG 10 is disposedproximate to and rearward of the parietal bone just above the ear. Asmall incision (shown below) is made into which the FPL 20 is insertedand routed forward to the frontal bone passing over the auriculotemoralnerve 61 and the supraorbital nerve 71. The OL 30 is routed through theincision backwards to the a occipital nerve. Then the IPG 10 is insertedthrough the incision and then the incision closed. Thus, with a singleincision, the entire neurostimulator system can be disposed in asubcutaneous region of the cranium, the regions selected such that aminimal amount of movement will occur with everyday activity of anindividual. The selection of the region in which the main body isimplanted is selected based upon a region that will result in minimalmigration of the IPG 10 (noting again tht it is not secured to bone), bevery unobtrusive to the individual and allow easy access to the frontaland a possible regions of the cranium. There is no need to secure themain IPG 10 to the bone or to even provide any stylet securing it to thefascia.

It is to be understood that the implementations disclosed herein are notlimited to the particular systems or processes described which might, ofcourse, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology usedherein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only,and is not intended to be limiting. As used in this specification, thesingular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless thecontent clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “anaccumulator” includes a combination of two or more accumulators; and,reference to “a valve” includes different types and/or combinations ofvalves. Reference to “a compressor” may include a combination of two ormore compressors. As another example, “coupling” includes direct and/orindirect coupling of members.

Although the present disclosure has been described in detail, it shouldbe understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations may bemade herein without departing from the spirit and scope of thedisclosure as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of thepresent application is not intended to be limited to the particularembodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter,means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one ofordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure,processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means,methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed thatperform substantially the same function or achieve substantially thesame result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may beutilized according to the present disclosure. Accordingly, the appendedclaims are intended to include within their scope such processes,machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

Referring now to FIG. 19, there is illustrated a headset 1902 disposedabout the cranium for interfacing with the two implants 10 a of FIG. 17.The headset 1902 includes right and left coupling coil enclosures 1904and 1906, respectively that contain coils coupled to the respectivecoils in the implants 10 a. The coil enclosures 1904 and 1906 interfacewith a main charger/processor body 1908 which contains processorcircuitry and batteries for both charging the internal battery in theimplants 10 a and also communicating with the implants 10 a. Thus, inoperation, when a patient desires to charge their implants 10 a, allthat is necessary is to place the headset 1902 about the cranium withthe coil enclosures 1904 and 1906 in close proximity to the respectiveimplants 10 a. This will automatically effect charging. Forcommunication, there is provided some internal communication requiredfor charging but also, an external interface can be provided to the uservia the handheld unit described in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

Referring now to FIG. 20, there is illustrated a diagrammatic view ofthe interface of the headset 1902 with the implants 10 a. Each of theimplants 10 a is interfaced with the leads 20 and 30 and includes theprocessor 13 and the battery 12. Also, although not illustrated, thecoil 11 is disposed therein. It should be understood that the processor13 can be any type of instruction based processing device or statemachine and even an ASIC that is capable of executing a sequence ofevents that results in some pattern of stimulating signals to betransmitted to the electrodes and also facilitates charging/powering andcommunication.

Referring now to FIG. 21, there is illustrated a schematic view of theoverall headset and implants. The headset 1902 is comprised of twocoupling coils 2002 and 2004, each operable to couple with therespective coil 11 of the respective implants 10 a. There is coupling ofboth charging power and communication, this communication beingbidirectional. The two series coils 2002 and 2004 are controlled by acharger and TX/RX circuit 2006. This circuit 2006 is operable togenerate sufficient energy at a resonant frequency of the coil to coupleacross the skin to the coil 11, which is then used to charge therespective battery 12. The processor 13 is operable to facilitate thecharging and communication operations and also the driving operationsfor driving current to the associated leads 20 and 30.

Referring now to FIGS. 22A and 22B, there are illustrated block diagramsfor the operation of the overall system. With reference specifically toFIG. 22A, there is illustrated a block diagram for implantation 10 a,wherein a microprocessor 2204 is contained at the heart of the overalloperation. This is interfaced with a memory for storing instructionsprograms and also with a driver 2208 for driving leads 20 and 30. Thecoil 11 is interfaced with a detector 2210 that is operable to detectenergy across the coil 11 and convert it to a DC value for input to acharge control circuit 2212, which is controlled by the microprocessor2204, and discharges the battery 12, the battery 12 providing power tothe entire implant 10 a. Additionally, the coil 11 has an interfacethrough a connection 2214 to a TX/RX circuit 2218 which is operable todetect received data that is interposed onto the resonant frequency ofthe energy transfer such that information can be received. Also,transmitted information can be the same type of signal, which istransmitted onto the coil 11. This TX/RX signal can be transferredacross the coil 11 to the respective coil 2002 or 2004 between theheadset 1902 and the implants 10 a such that the charger and TX/RXcircuit 2006 in the headset 1902 can communicate with implant 10 a. Itshould be understood that the microprocessor 2204 can be any type ofinstruction based processing device or state machine and even an ASICthat is capable of executing a sequence of events that results in somecharging/powering of the implant and communication therewith.

Referring now to FIG. 22B, there is illustrated a block diagram ofheadset 1902 interfaced with the handheld device, as indicated by block2222. The headset includes a processor 2224 which is interfaced with abattery through a signal supply line 2226. The processor 2224 isinterfaced with a charge control circuit 2230 that drives the two coils2002 and 2004. The processor 2224 also controls a RX/TX circuit 2228that is operable to communicate with the implants 10 a by inserting adata signal onto the resonant frequency of the coils 2002 and 2004 withan AC signal that can be coupled across the skin to the coils 11 or bothtransmit and receive operations. The processor 2224 also interfaces witha communication interface 2234 that is operable to wirelesslycommunicate with the handheld device 2222. This navigation interface canuse any type of communication interface required such as Bluetooth,Bluetooth low energy, Zigbee or any type of communication protocol. Thismerely allows a user to interface with processor 2224 on the headset1902 for the purpose of interfacing with the implant. This allows asurgeon, for example, after implanting the devices, to test the deviceswithout having to actually access the leads themselves to plug into aseparate controller. Thus, the implants are implanted and the incisionsclosed up before any attempt is made to determine the efficacy of theoverall operation of the implants in any particular patient.

Referring now to FIG. 23, there is illustrated a flowchart depicting theoverall operation of activating the implant after surgery. This isinitiated at a Start block 2302 and then proceeds to a block 2304wherein the headset is placed onto the patient after surgery.Thereafter, communication with the headset is effected through ahandheld unit, for example, as indicated by block 2306. The program thenflows to a decision block 2308 to determine if a link with the implantcan be made. Initially, the implants have batteries with a finite chargesuch that they are able to communicate with the headset 1902. However,if not, the implants will charge. Once sufficient charge has beenprovided to the implants, a link will be made with the implant and theprogram will flow to a block 2310 to activate a test program. However,until the link is made, a return loop will be made back to the input ofthe decision block 2308 until a timeout has occurred and then an errorwill be indicated. Once the test program has been activated, the programflows to a decision block 2312 to determine if a confirmation has beenreceived that the operation has occurred. This typically is feedback tothe patient and in that the therapeutic relief expected by the patienthas been achieved to some extent. If no confirmation has been received,the program will flow to a block 2320 in order to troubleshoot thesystem. In general, what might happen is that different programs wouldhave to be implemented in order to adjust the distribution of thedriving signals across the electrodes associated with the variousimplanted leads.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit ofthis disclosure that this implantable head mounted neurostimulationsystem for head pain provides a unibody construction with implantedleads to cover the frontal, parietal, and occipital regions of the head.It should be understood that the drawings and detailed descriptionherein are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictivemanner, and are not intended to be limiting to the particular forms andexamples disclosed. On the contrary, included are any furthermodifications, changes, rearrangements, substitutions, alternatives,design choices, and embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art, without departing from the spirit and scope hereof, as definedby the following claims. Thus, it is intended that the following claimsbe interpreted to embrace all such further modifications, changes,rearrangements, substitutions, alternatives, design choices, andembodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for treating patients with migraineheadaches, comprising the steps of: subcutaneously implanting at leastone neurostimulator control system through an incision in the cranialregion, which neurostimulator control system includes a main bodydisposed proximate the incision having a processor disposed therein andan interface interfacing to at least one integrated stimulating lead,and the at least one integrated stimulating lead having a proximal endconnected to the interface and an array of electrodes disposed along thelength of the at least one integrated stimulating lead proximate thedistal end thereof and interfaced through internal wires to theprocessor through the interface, the step of implanting furtherextending the distal end of the integrated stimulating leadsubcutaneously from the neurostimulator control system to the frontalcranial region so that at least one of the electrodes is proximate andover a nerve; and applying, after extending the distal end of the atleast one integrated stimulating lead, at least one stimulating signalby the processor in the main body through the internal wires in the atleast one integrated stimulating lead to the electrode proximate the atleast one nerve, thereby at least in part alleviating pain associatedwith migraine headaches; wherein the at least one nerve is selected fromat least one of the body, branches and roots of at least one of thesupraorbital nerves.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the incision ismade proximate the parietal bone.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein theincision is distal and above the pinna.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein a subcutaneous pocket is created through the incision to containthe neurostimulator control system.
 5. The method of claim 1, whereinthe neurostimulator control system includes a power source and aninternal communication system.
 6. The method of claim 5, and furthercomprising interfacing an external communication system with theinternal communication system to transmit signals thereto, wherein thetransmission of signals to the internal communication system causes theprocessor to apply the at least one stimulating signal.
 7. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the interface interfaces to at least another integratedstimulating lead, and the at least another integrated stimulating leadhaving a proximal end connected to the interface and an array ofelectrodes disposed along the length of the at least another integratedstimulating lead proximate the distal end thereof and interfaced throughinternal wires to the processor through the interface, the step ofimplanting further extending the distal end of the at least anotherintegrated stimulating lead subcutaneously from the neurostimulatorcontrol system to the occipital region so that at least one of theelectrodes thereof is proximate and over a nerve and wherein the nerveis selected from at least one of the body, branches and roots of atleast one of the occipital nerves.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein theincision is closed prior to the step of applying the at least onestimulating signal.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least oneintegrated stimulating lead includes a second array of electrodes withat least one of the electrodes in the second array disposed over atleast one nerve which is selected from at least one of the body,branches and roots of at least one of the auriculo-temporal nerves.